Old Foredom handpieces

Jewelry Discussion
1

At my job, we have a number of old handpieces that do not run true–
the tool in the chuck spins off-center. Can these be rebuilt? Is
this a diy job, or whom do we send them to?

Thanks!
Noel

2

Hi Noel,

At my job, we have a number of old handpieces that do not run
true-- the tool in the chuck spins off-center. Can these be
rebuilt? Is this a diy job, or whom do we send them to?

Without seeing the handpieces, it’s difficult to say what’s causing
the problem.

The problem could be caused by the jaws of the chuck being worn or
it could be caused by defective bearings in the handpiece.

Probably the best way to resolve the problem would be to contact the
mfg or some one else that does machine repair.

Dave

3

I have sent mine in for repair to my supplier, Armstrong tool and
Supply. They have guy locally in Mich. there that repairs them. Give
them a call and tell them what you have and maybe they can help.
800-446-9694. Talk to Don or Kevin. Tell them, Steve from Arista
Designs sent you.

Steve

4

The bearings are replaceable on model 30. Foredom offers them.
Skateboard bearings are the same size. Get sealed bearings. Look up
the video on how to take apart the new models- online.

Older, better built models must have the bearing closest to the
chuck pressed out by a tool.

Does anyone know -exactly- what tool to use for removing the older
model 30 top bearing?

James

5

Gesswein can repair most any kind of handpiece. They’ve always
treated me right, fair pricing, decent work, two week turn-around.
Otto Frei and Rio Grande also have repair services, same thing, good
service, fair pricing, pretty quick turn-around. Call any of these
companies’ tech departments for info.

Dave Phelps.

6

Hi James,

The bearings are replaceable on model 30. Foredom offers them.

Yes, The ball bearings from Foredom (Foredom number HP 61) are the
best to use.

Skateboard bearings are the same size. Get sealed bearings.

They are the same size, 8mm X 22mm X 7mm, industry number 608zz, but
Foredom has theirs specially made for the 30. They will run cooler
and last longer. I have had this conversation many times with Foredom
engineers. We ONLY use the correct Foredom ball bearings when we
repair a #30 handpiece.

Does anyone know -exactly- what tool to use for removing the older
model 30 top bearing?

On #30 handpieces built prior to July, 1997, We use a set of wedges
made to remove Jacobs chucks from the taper shaft. I bought our set
from MSC Industrial supply. Be very careful as uneven force to remove
the chuck can flex the spindle and cause it to not run true when
reassembled.

John
The Jewelry Equipment Dr.

7 
Does anyone know -exactly- what tool to use for removing the older
model 30 top bearing?

http://www.ganoksin.com/gnkurl/ep7z8v

Richard Hart G.G.
Denver, Co.

8

Richard,

Does anyone know -exactly- what tool to use for removing the older
model 30 top bearing? http://www.ganoksin.com/gnkurl/ep7z8v

Great video. It is, however, of the new style and does not answer
James’ question about the old style. Anyone is welcome to email me if
they would like technical help with their handpiece repair.

John
The Jewelry Equipment Dr.

9

Richard,

Here at Foredom we manufactured a special arbor press for the H.30
handpiece to remove or press on the bearings and chuck from the
spindle. We changed the design to slip fit bearings from the rear of
the spindle so you don’t need to remove the chuck in 1997. So for
newer H.30 handpieces you can easily replace the bearings. You can
replace the old design H.30 press fit bearings your self if you are
careful not to damage the bearing raceway when pressing them on to
the spindle. However as you will need to remove and replace the chuck
from the spindle I recommend that you send it back to our factory to
make sure that chuck is mounted on the spindle to run true.

Mike Zagielski
Foredom Electric & Zona Tool Co.

10

While I was watching the video, the repair person suggested sending
in the older models for updating (I believe).

George in Green Bay

11 
However as you will need to remove and replace the chuck from the
spindle I recommend that you send it back to our factory to make
sure that chuck is mounted on the spindle to run true.

Thanks-- that’s exactly what I convinced my boss to do. Now we will
wait to hear whether it will be appreciably less expensive than
buying new ones! Included a couple of foot pedals in the package,
too.

Noel